Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Monday that Tehran is “not seeking war but fully prepared for war” while also expressing willingness to negotiate with the United States.

Araghchi made the remarks to a conference of foreign ambassadors in Tehran, broadcast on state television, underscoring Iran’s dual posture of deterrence and engagement as tensions with Washington escalate.

The diplomatic exchange follows nationwide protests that erupted on December 28 over Iran’s collapsing currency and rising cost of living, which have since expanded into broader demonstrations against the governing system.

Rights groups say the protests have left more than 500 people dead and over 10,600 arrested, though Iranian authorities have not released official figures.

U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned that the United States is considering very strong options, including potential military responses, if Iranian security forces continue violent actions against protesters.

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said Iranian leaders contacted Washington seeking negotiations, but also hinted that military action might precede any talks.